Mr. Speaker, I pay tribute to the athletes today participating at the Canada Winter Games which will begin tomorrow in Bathurst and Campbellton, New Brunswick.
We can be proud of each one of them and of this extraordinary event which brings together athletes from 16 sports over a two week period, a true testimony of the dedication and hard work of Canadian youth.
I would also like to extend congratulations and express gratitude to the coaches, staff and volunteers who will accompany these athletes. They will continue to expend considerable effort ensuring optimal conditions for each of our athletes to perform at their personal best.
Each of these young athletes got their start in their home communities with local clubs and teams. I would like to pay tribute to the thousands of coaches, officials, event organizers, support staff, volunteers and parents who have supported the athletes throughout the years, and particularly in preparation for their Canada Winter Games.
We are very proud of all--